Abstract: Oriented materials are described in which particular crystalline materials are grown on a highly-oriented polytetrafluoroethylene substrate. Compositions are provided comprising a layer of aligned molecular chains of oriented polytetrafluoroethylene and an overlayer of a second polymer that imparts desired properties to the construction. A third layer of crystallizable, orientable material is then deposited on the overlayer. The third layer becomes oriented. The materials are useful as polarizers when the third layer is a polarizing dye.

Abstract: A flexible, breathable, composite is provided. The laminate comprises a middle layer of a padding and top and bottom layer comprising a sheet of water impermeable, moisture-vapor-permeable film bonded to the middle layer and wherein at least one outer surface of the top or bottom layer is provided with a pressure-sensitive biocompatible adhesive. Preferably the top and bottom layers comprise a composite of (a) a flexible, first sheet of hydrophobic material; and (b) a continuous hydrophilic sheet attached to or penetrating the first sheet, and forming a contamination barrier. The composite is useful in diverse applications such as a padding under orthopedic casts.